Fleming and Zadorsky part of Canada's early path to World Cup

Londoners Jessie Fleming and Shelina Zadorsky were named to Canada’s national women’s soccer team for a training match against the Swiss next Thursday and an international friendly with Norway Jan. 22, both in Spain.

The 20-year-old Fleming has completed her third NCAA season with the UCLA Bruins. The 26-year-old Zadorsky plays for the Orlando Pride of the National Women’s Soccer League.

Lindsay Agnew, the 23-year-old daughter of former London Knights coach Gary Agnew, is also part of the squad. The Kingston native, who was introduced to soccer through the Byron Optimists program, is an Ohio State grad and current fullback with the NWSL’s Houston Dash.

“This year is all about preparing for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, so we are eager to get together in Europe and continue the momentum we built throughout 2018,” national team coach Kenneth Heiner-Moller, said.

“Switzerland and Norway are both difficult sides, so these two matches will serve as an excellent opportunity to test ourselves against strong European opponents.”

Canada will be part of the Algarve Cup starting at the end of February in Portugal. The Canadians will be in a group with Iceland and Scotland.

The Women’s World Cup will be held in June in France. Canada will face Cameroon, New Zealand and Netherlands in group play.